YANGON: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Ministry of Health has issued a public warning against the use of formalin, a banned and harmful chemical, in food products such as bean curd and rice noodles.
According to the FDA, consuming food containing formalin can cause dizziness, headaches, vomiting, stomach pain and breathing difficulties in the short term. Long-term exposure may lead to stomach ulcers, liver and kidney damage, and even cancer. The chemical poses serious risks to pregnant women and children, as it can affect fetal development and hinder children's growth.
The FDA has reminded food producers, distributors, and sellers that the use of formalin in food production is strictly prohibited. Those found violating the rule will face legal action under Section 28(a) of the National Food Law.
Formalin, commonly used for preserving dead bodies, disinfecting warehouses, controlling pests, and in manufacturing silk, dyes, glass, explosives and cosmetics, is not safe for food preservation. The FDA stressed that international health authorities are also closely monitoring and restricting its use in food products worldwide. - Eleven Media/ANN